King James Version

What Does 2 Peter 1:20 Mean?

2 Peter 1:20 in the King James Version says “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.” — study this verse from 2 Peter chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.”

2 Peter 1:20 · KJV

Context

18

And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount.

19

We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

20

Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.

21

For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. in old time: or, at any time

Read 2 Peter 1 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Chapter 1, verse 20 - Comprehensive theological analysis. Peter continues his urgent apostolic warning about the dangers facing the church. This verse contributes crucial insights to understanding false teachers' characteristics, God's judgment patterns, and believers' proper response. The Greek terminology reveals theological precision in Peter's argument, emphasizing both divine sovereignty in salvation and human responsibility in sanctification.

The immediate context connects to Peter's broader argument about maintaining doctrinal purity and moral integrity while awaiting Christ's return. Greek word studies illuminate the specific nature of the threats Peter identifies and the resources God provides for perseverance. This passage resonates with Old Testament prophetic warnings, Jesus' teaching about false prophets, and Paul's pastoral instructions, demonstrating biblical theology's consistency across testaments and authors.

Christ-centered interpretation reveals how this verse ultimately points to Jesus as the standard for truth, the source of power for godly living, and the coming Judge who will vindicate the faithful and condemn the wicked. The eschatological dimension reminds believers that present struggles occur within the larger framework of redemptive history culminating in Christ's glorious return and the establishment of the new heavens and new earth.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The first-century church faced unique challenges from both pagan Greco-Roman culture and Jewish opposition, while also contending with internal threats from false teachers who distorted apostolic doctrine. Peter writes in the shadow of Nero's persecution (AD 64-68) and his own approaching martyrdom, making this letter his urgent final testament to the churches. Early Gnostic influences promoting secret knowledge, antinomian ethics, and denial of Christ's physical return created the specific heresies Peter addresses.

Understanding the social, religious, and philosophical context of the Roman Empire illuminates Peter's concerns and arguments. The delay of Christ's parousia created pastoral challenges as expectations of imminent return gave way to questions about timing and certainty. Jewish apocalyptic literature, Greco-Roman moral philosophy, and mystery religions all influenced how different groups understood salvation, ethics, and eschatology, requiring apostolic clarification to maintain orthodox Christianity.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse challenge compromises you might be tempted to make for cultural acceptance or personal comfort?
  2. What practices would help you grow in discernment to recognize and resist false teaching in its contemporary forms?
  3. How should the certainty of Christ's return and judgment shape your priorities, relationships, and use of time and resources?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 11 words
τοῦτο1 of 11

“this”

G5124

that thing

πρῶτον2 of 11

“first”

G4412

firstly (in time, place, order, or importance)

γινώσκοντες3 of 11

“Knowing”

G1097

to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)

ὅτι4 of 11

“that”

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

πᾶσα5 of 11
G3956

all, any, every, the whole

προφητεία6 of 11

“prophecy”

G4394

prediction (scriptural or other)

γραφῆς7 of 11

“of the scripture”

G1124

a document, i.e., holy writ (or its contents or a statement in it)

ἰδίας8 of 11

“of any private”

G2398

pertaining to self, i.e., one's own; by implication, private or separate

ἐπιλύσεως9 of 11

“interpretation”

G1955

explanation, i.e., application

οὐ10 of 11

“no”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

γίνεται·11 of 11

“is”

G1096

to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Peter. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Peter 1:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Peter 1:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Peter 3:3

Test Your Knowledge

2 Peter 1 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Peter Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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